EFFORTS to promote Runcorn street market are taking shape.

A branded mini bus will travel around the borough for the next year promoting the market, while cotton bags will also be handed out in the town centre.

Halton Council’s Runcorn Town Team, who run the scheme, have used a bus that serves the borough, transporting school children with special educational needs and vulnerable adults.

Clr Norman Plumton Walsh, chairman of Runcorn Town Team, said: "Both the bus and the bags are being used to promote the market to a new audience which may not be aware it takes place and the goods it offers."

The team, made up of 18 representatives including councillors, traders, residents and community groups, is responsible for deciding how the High Street Innovation Fund is spent.

Their aim is to bring empty units back into use and increase footfall in the town centre.

Halton Council's executive board member for the physical environment, Clr Ron Hignett said: “The more people use the market the stronger it will become and the more people who come to the town centre, the more business will be attracted there. It is a win win situation."

Runcorn Street Market takes places every Tuesday 9am to 3pm and has approximately 20 stalls every week selling a variety of goods.

The new initiative follows the recent completion of a mural on Church Street intended to improve its appearance and to promote the street market.